Beyond Biology: Socioeconomic and Psychosocial Dimensions of Sickle Cell Disease in Tribal Communities of Chhattisgarh, India

Abstract

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a hereditary hemoglobin disorder that is widely prevalent among tribal populations in central India, particularly in the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh. The socioeconomic status (SES) of SCD patients in the state is typically low, with a disproportionate burden on Scheduled Tribes (ST), Scheduled Castes (SC), and Other Backward Classes (OBC), who often reside in remote areas with limited access to healthcare. SCD significantly affects patients’ financial stability, quality of life, and access to timely medical care.

This study examines the socioeconomic challenges faced by individuals with SCD in the tribal areas of Bastar, focusing on healthcare access, education, employment status, and social stigma. Using field surveys, interviews, and secondary data analysis, the research highlights the multifaceted impact of SCD on individuals and communities. The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions to enhance healthcare delivery, improve socioeconomic conditions, and reduce disease-related stigma in the region.